What’s so great about the Garden State, anyway? We asked NJ

New Jersey has about 9 million people. There must be something to like about it.

Actually, there's plenty, and New Jersey 101.5 took to Facebook to learn exactly what residents enjoy most about living in the Garden State.

There was no shortage of sarcasm (we know that high taxes are not what you love most about New Jersey). But the comment feed was mostly packed with Jersey pride.

Sadly, the most common response came from folks who used to live in New Jersey but still follow the NJ101.5 Facebook page. Check out the last entry on the list.

Below is a rundown of the most popular answers.

What's to enjoy about New Jersey?

Pizza

New Jersey may not be considered a top pizza state to outsiders, but Garden State residents claim that many pizza joints here are just as good or better than pizzerias in New York.

Jersey Shore

Public beaches and access to the water — don't take them for granted. And towns have amplified the appeal by turning the shore into a destination that may deserve a week-long stay.

Pine Barrens

The Pinelands cover 22% of New Jersey's land area, enveloping a number of towns. Beyond camping, the tract of open space offers opportunities for canoeing, hiking, hunting, and horseback riding.

SEE ALSO: Who is NJ's favorite former governor? Recent names fall short

Proximity

Many New Jerseyans are a short drive from New York and/or Pennsylvania.

The weather

Some people hate the idea of year-round warmth and love that New Jersey gets a good balance of all four seasons.

Leaving

This response doesn't really fit as an answer to what we asked on Facebook, but it deserves to be mentioned — because it was the most common. These people are just trying to mask the pain that lingers from leaving New Jersey.

Report a correction 👈 | 👉 Contact our newsroom